User Reviews

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Submitted by
George Tordai
a AudioPhile

Date Reviewed: October 5, 2002

Bottom Line:

Being a tube enthusiast for more than 15 years I started dabbling in solid-state amplification from shear curiosity. Having purchased and built several dozen-tube amps and always listening to efficient speakers through a ten-year span of SE low power tube amps was satisfied with this relationship. My close friend Peter Daniels was a mechanical engineer and a serious audio DIY guy who was constantly building solid-state amps in his basement. He invited me over for a listen one night having just completed his latest project a SE “Class A” solid-state amp from a Nelson Pass circuit.. Although his mono blocks didn’t have the smooth extension of a tube it was very close. What caught my attention was great bass and bass control and better control in the dynamics department that to me was now missing in the all tube amps. I always felt from then on that the combination of tube and solid state was going to be the answer. Blue Circle is a local audio company but is selling their products mainly in the US so availability of their amps was scarce on this side of the border. I have herd the BC6 several time at audio shows and my suspicions were confirmed. In short listening sessions available this amp combined the warm and detailed resolution of tubes with the great authority and control and bass of a solid-state amp. Was I dreaming? Has someone finally got it right? I had to have this BC6 for a closer listening experience so as soon as one came up on Audiogone I bought it used for $1100.00US. This seamed to be the going price, new it was $3700.00US. I had a Wilson Watt in my collection, the original Watt from 1993 with the Figaro stands and I what better reference speaker to test sonic attributes of an amp that a Watt. I was a little nevus about 25W driving this speaker even though they are reasonably efficient. To my amazement the BC6 was a great match, it had good gain to very good volumes and could be played fairly loud. This amp will surprise you with its ability to drive speakers. Once warmed up, say about a good hour the soundstage resolution was simply amazing. Wide deep soundstage with exemplary detail, midrange and highs to die for and very tight well defined and controlled bass with excellent extension from a 25W amp. I have not heard the Wilson’s come to such life with any other amp in my system. I consider the BC6 as one of the best amplifiers at any price